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What number must be added to the expression below to complete the square?

[tex]\[ x^2 - 18x \][/tex]

A. 9

B. -81

C. 81

D. -9


Sagot :

To complete the square for the given quadratic expression [tex]\(x^2 - 18x\)[/tex], follow these steps:

1. Identify the coefficient of [tex]\(x\)[/tex]:
The coefficient of [tex]\(x\)[/tex] is [tex]\(-18\)[/tex].

2. Calculate half of the coefficient of [tex]\(x\)[/tex]:
[tex]\[ \frac{-18}{2} = -9 \][/tex]

3. Square the result obtained in step 2:
[tex]\[ (-9)^2 = 81 \][/tex]

The number that must be added to the expression [tex]\(x^2 - 18x\)[/tex] to complete the square is therefore [tex]\(81\)[/tex].

So, the correct answer is:

C. 81